HG's BEST Finds of '11 and New Year's Eve Tips!

I'm curious... With the New Year just around the corner, what are some of your favorite food discoveries of 2011?

Wonderin' Whitney

Hi Whitney,

Great Q! It's been a busy year at the HG HQ, what with two seasons of Hungry Girl (hope you've been watching!) and two best-selling books (300 Under 300 and Supermarket Survival). But there's ALWAYS time for brand-new food finds, and there were many great ones in 2011. Here are some of my favorites...

Corazonas Oatmeal Squares - These dense, chewy treats are like a cross between snack bars and giant cookies -- satisfying and indulgent. There are chocolatey flavors and fruity ones, and each has less than 200 calories. Great as an on-the-go breakfast, a filling snack, or a dessert-like treat!

Extra Dessert Delights Apple Pie - This sugar-free gum tastes so much like real apple pie, you'd think Willy Wonka was behind it. Keep a pack of this stuff on hand to squash a craving for the real thing.

Flatout Foldit Flatbreads and Sliders - The thin-bread trend was taken to a whole new level this year! These exclusive HG foldable flatbreads are amazing for big sandwiches (and, um, little ones in the case of the Sliders!). Bonus: There are Hungry Girl recipes on the back of the packages. Find 'em at Walmart Supercenters.

Turnips - The latest development in the world of French fry swapping! They've got a slight cabbage-y taste, which I like, and the texture is just right for baking up fry-like spears. They're crazy-low in calories (8 per ounce). Try 'em in this Turnip the Disco Fries recipe!

Nimble by Balance Bar - These bars have a unique nougat-like texture, and they're packed with nutrients. The Peanut Butter ones taste incredible, and the stats are great! Really filling... Stonyfield Oikos Organic Nonfat Greek Frozen Yogurt - Yup, Greek yogurt has ventured into the freezer aisle. This stuff is super-creamy, sweet, and not too tart. Choose from Blueberry, Honey, Vanilla, and Chocolate. Just 100 - 110 calories per 1/2-cup serving, plus lots of protein (6g per serving). Good stuff!

If you haven't tried all of these yet, DO IT. Can't wait to see what next year brings!

Hi Lisa,

Help! I'm going to a New Year's Eve party, and I'm worried about eating everything in sight. Any tips to help me get through the night successfully?

Party Prepper

Hi Party Prepper,

Glad you're thinking ahead. So many people just throw in the towel without even trying, but it's completely possible to stay on track and enjoy yourself at a party. Here are some tips to help you end the year on a good note...

Don't arrive hungry. I say it all the time, but people keep on making this mistake. If you go to the party starving, you're more likely to eat anything (and everything), regardless of whether it's a good choice. Eat a sensible breakfast and lunch that day, and have a filling snack about an hour before you head out.

Contribute! Whether you whip up a recipe for no-guilt party food (De-Pudged Pigs in a Blanket = the bestest) or just pick up something smart along the way (like low-calorie cocktail mixers), you'll be helping out your host and yourself by providing something diet-friendly. Chances are there'll be some grateful partygoers too. ("You do have Sprite Zero for my vodka drink? YES!")

Pace yourself with drinks. Most people get into trouble at parties because of the hidden calories in alcohol. Stick with smart picks like wine, champagne, light beer, and simple mixed drinks (click here for more on those). For every drink you sip, have a glass of water. That'll slow you down and help keep you feeling full, so you'll be less likely to mindlessly munch throughout the night.

Survey the scene. Scope out some smart food picks... things like cut veggies, shrimp cocktail, and grilled chicken skewers. Fill up on these things. Then treat yourself to one or two of your party-food favorites (like mini quiche or egg rolls).

Enjoy the people and the party! Parties are all about socializing... the food is just secondary. Enjoy the time with friends -- talking, laughing, and dancing. You'll be so busy that you might actually forget about the food!

Overall, be realistic and don't be too hard on yourself. It's a party, so have fun. Happy (almost) New Year!

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CHEW ON THIS:

Today, December 21st, is National French Fried Shrimp Day. Well, this is an odd one! We're splitting it down the middle -- celebrate with HG swaps for French fries OR fried shrimp!

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